Those who know Luke describe him as intelligent, friendly, funny, a “book worm”, respectful, and repeatedly: a great mediator and someone with an uncanny ability to de-escalate situations. Luke was never a fighter, aggressive, or violent, but he was no pushover. When Luke witnessed an injustice, he intervened appropriately to protect those around him.
Investigative reports detail interviews with Luke’s former coworkers, friends, teachers, and even his wife’s ex-boyfriend, who depict him in nothing but the most positive light. Luke, a dependable, kind, smart young man. Luke, a man whose previous girlfriends have nothing but kind, loving words of friendship and respect. Luke, stepping in to protect two women from a man assaulting them in the street, and waiting with them until the cops arrive. Luke, star student, journalist, and citizen.
“No one should have to experience the trauma that Luke is still going through. The world would be a better place with him as a free man in it. Luke deserves to heal the wounds inflicted on him by our justice system, and to get back to his life…”
Quotes from former girlfriends, teachers, friends, and employers.
Education & Achievements
Washington State University Magna Cum Laude
Graduated with a 3.8 GPA in History
Clatsop Community College
3.9 GPA & Dean’s List
Washington Press Association
1st Place Winner: Excellence in Student Journalism Competition
Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society
Winner of various scholarships and grants at high school graduation and throughout college
Professional
Journalist
Rain Magazine
Professional Photographer
The Daily Astorian, Coast Weekend, The Chinook Observer, Active Lives, Northwest Coast Magazine, Oregon Coast Magazine, and more.
Gallery Exhibition
Old Town Framing in Astoria, Oregon
Real Estate Investor
Affiliations
Lifetime Member
Chinook Lutheran Church
Join the silent protest on March 6 at Bend Courthouse.
Join us in bringing awareness to the citizens of Deschutes County of the injustice that was obvious in the first trial surrounding Luke’s case.
Learn More
#FreeLuke
You can help to right the injustices and bring Luke Wirkkala home to his family.
How will you show your support?
Direct everyone you know to this website.
Share Luke's Story
Share links to Luke’s story on social media among your friends and family because Luke has suffered injustice long enough and your voice helps.
Add your name to the petition.
Change.org Petition
A Change.org petition to Kate Brown the Oregon Governor has over 2300 signatures seeking Luke’s release from prison. Your voice and sharing the petition with your friends and family will help free Luke.
Have a view on Luke's prosecution?
Contact the District Attorney
Our District Attorney is an elected official, representing us. If, like us, you feel strongly that Luke should be freed and returned to his family please contact the DA by phone, email, Twitter, or make an appointment.
Imagine Luke were your brother, your son.
Contribute to the Fighting Fund
Your donation to support our efforts to free Luke are hugely appreciated. The last 7 years have been incredibly stressful for Luke’s family. Your financial support will ensure Luke’s story is spread widely and, God willing, results in Luke being acquitted at retrial.